Matthew Henry Commentary 1 Timothy 5:9-16

"Let none be enrolled as a widow under threescore years old, [having been] the wife of one man, well reported of for good works; if she hath brought up children, if she hath used hospitality to strangers, if she hath washed the saints` feet, if she hath relieved the afflicted, if she hath diligently followed every good work. But younger widows refuse: for when they have waxed wanton against Christ, they desire to marry; having condemnation, because they have rejected their first pledge. And withal they learn also [to be] idle, going about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not. I desire therefore that the younger [widows] marry, bear children, rule the household, give no occasion to the adversary for reviling: for already some are turned aside after Satan. If any woman that believeth hath widows, let her relieve them, and let not the church be burdened; that it mat relieve them that are widows indeed." — 1 Timothy 5:9-16 (ASV)

Everyone brought into any office in the church should be free from just censure; and many are proper objects of charity, yet should not be employed in public services.

Those who would find mercy when they are in distress must show mercy when they are in prosperity; and those who show the most readiness for every good work are most likely to be faithful in whatever is entrusted to them.

Those who are idle are very seldom merely idle; they make mischief among neighbors and sow discord among fellow believers.

All believers are required to relieve family members who are destitute, so that the church may not be prevented from relieving those who are entirely destitute and friendless.